Donations 2018 Event

Our not-for-profit event celebrates California's vaquero heritage through vaquero-style artisans, presentations, demonstrations and exhibits while raising awareness to the importance of vaquero history which is tied directly to the California Mission & Rancho eras. Proceeds from this event directly benefit St. Francis Retreat on Historic Rancho San Justo and go toward maintaining the structures and historic grounds -- the same grounds where original Spanish and Mexican vaqueros tended herds of cattle, horses and sheep in the late 1700s - 1800s and on into the 1900s.

Background of VHD: With great support of sponsors, the inaugural 2010 Vaquero Heritage Days held within a parish hall at Old San Juan Mission was a tremendous success. The 1-1/2 day event drew 1000 attendance from 7 western states, and we received overwhelming requests to produce the event again. The 2012, 2014 & 2016 Vaquero Heritage Days were 3-day events held at St. Francis Retreat on historic Rancho San Justo, just 2 miles from the Mission. Thousands attended from throughout the U.S., Canada and many countries making the events very successful and benefitting the Retreat Center, helping to secure this significant piece of history. We look forward to Vaquero Heritage Days in 2018 and hope you will join us!

Donations of both services and monatary amounts are appreciated. We thank our special volunteers who help make Vaquero Heritage Days possible. Donations or Sponsorships in any amount are greatly appreciated. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law under St. Francis Retreat's 501c3 non-profit status. Please feel free to contact Jane Merrill, Director of the Event at 831.623.1128 with any questions. For actual Sponsorship Packages, please visit our Sponsorship Opportunities page.

Thank you for considering a contribution. Your support will aid in sustaining valued traditions for future generations. We hope you will look forward to being involved in this event.